International Conscientious Objectors' Day is
closely linked to the International Conscientious Objectors' Meeting (ICOM).
Between 1981 and 1997, ICOM was organized every year by groups affiliated to War
Resisters' International.

Center On Conscience & War... What do YOU believe about war? Read our Questions for
the ConscientiousObjector. It could change your life. Are you a ConscientiousObjector? ...Description: Formed in 1940 by an association of
religious bodies, CCW works to defend and extend the rights of conscientious
objectors.

How to Object:Tips for young people
When a draft is reinstated, everyone who's fit will be summoned. As in the past,
those who resist will endure close scrutiny.

That's why Vietnam CO Howard Welsh has put together tips for young men and women
who suspect they'd be unwilling to fight. Sixteen- and 17-year-olds can prepare
to assert their beliefs well before they have to register with the Selective
Service, at age 18. Here are some things to do:

Write a letter expressing that you object to all wars based on deeply
held philosophical or religious principles. This is your Affidavit of Fact.

Sign it, have it notarized, and get two other witnesses who are not
related to you and are registered voters to sign it. Send copies to your friends, family, and professional acquaintances. Be sure to
send a copy by certified mail to your U.S. Congressperson.

Get five letters of substantiation confirming your decision from your
parents or relatives, your religious leader, or your doctor. Each letter should
say that they know you as a conscientious objector. Each letter needs to be
postmarked.

The Affidavit of Fact can be filed with any Federal District Court as a
document in any Selective Service proceeding.

Once you turn 18 and have to register with the Selective Service, you
should write on the card, "I am a Conscientious Objector." Before
mailing the card, make a copy for your file; the Selective Service discards the
card once they enter it into the system.

Keep your documents secure and ready. It is a good idea to resubmit these
documents to federal legislators and the Selective Service every two years.

In the event of a draft, don't just wait and see what happens. The burden
of proof is on you; maintain your file.